Optical disc changer apparatus

Abstract

A high speed data storage and retrieval system includes a storage module, a reader and a changer apparatus. Disc records enclosed in protective cartridges are transported between the reader and the storage module by the changer apparatus. The reader includes two mechanical systems--a system for receiving, securing and spinning a disc while it is enclosed in the cartridge and a pair of read heads which retrieve data stored on the surface of the disc. The storage module includes a plurality of storage locations for storing the discs. The changer apparatus comprises a carriage with a drive mechanism for driving the carriage to a desired position along the length of the storage module and at least two carriers for transporting discs with independent drive mechanisms. The carrier drive mechanisms drive the carriers in a direction normal to the direction which the carriage is driven. Simultaneous movement of the carriage and carriers permits high speed access of data.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. In a data storage system for optically reading information stored on an optical disc, said system having a storage module having a plurality of storage locations for storing said optical disc enclosed in a protective cartridge, the system having a reader for optically reading information stored on said optical disc, a disc changer, comprising: a carriage having at least two positioning and retracting carriers for supporting said disc enclosed in said protective cartridge during transfer between said storage module and said reader;   means, connected to said carriers, for gripping said protective cartridge during transfer between said storage module and said reader;   first means for driving said carriage in a direction to align said disc enclosed in said protective cartridge with one of said plurality of storage locations;   second means for driving one of said at least two positioning and retracting carriers in a direction normal to the direction in which said carriage is driven by said first means; and   third means for driving another of said at least two positioning and retracting carriers in a direction parallel to the direction in which said second means is driven;   said first driving means being operated simultaneously with said second driving means when said one of said at least two positioning and retracting carriers is not supporting said disc and with said third driving means when said another of said at least two positioning and retracting carriers is not supporting said disc.   
     
     
       2. A disc changer according to claim 1 wherein said second driving means comprises a first ball screw and drive mechanism for driving said one of said at least two positioning and retracting carriers; and said third driving means comprises a second ball screw and drive mechanism for driving said another of said at least two positioning and retracting carriers.   
     
     
       3. A disc changer according to claim 2 wherein said first means for driving said carriage comprises a ball screw and drive mechanism. 
     
     
       4. A disc according to claim 3 wherein said protective cartridge has a magnetically actuated spring coupled thereto and wherein said gripping means comprises an electromagnetic device for coupling said gripping means to said protective cartridge when said electromagnetic device is activated by a source of electrical energy.